Spinal Educator

It appears American adults are enjoying their meals and snacks a little more than they have in years past. According to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), 34 percent of Americans are obese and 33 percent are simply overweight. This means in America, there are more "obese" adults than "overweight" adults. While data comes from 2005-2006 surveys, these are the most up-to-date statistics from the NCHS. Data from 1988-1994 surveys found 33 percent of American overweight and 23 percent obese. Thus, the percentage of those American adults considered obese have risen dramatically. Body mass index (BMI), a calculation of weight in kilograms divided by the height in meters squared, is what's used to classify individuals as overweight, obese and morbidly obese. An adult with a BMI of 25 to 29 is considered overweight while a BMI of 30 to 40 is considered obese. To calculate your own BMI, visit the NCHS at http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/.